DIVINE AUTHORITY.
The saving ordinances of the gospel must be administered by men holding the Priesthood, which is the authority of God delegated to man.
JOHN 15:16.—"Ye (the disciples) have not chosen me (Christ), but I have chosen you and ordained you."
MATT. 10:40.—"He that receiveth you (the disciples), receiveth me."
MATT. 16:19.—Divine authority is given to Peter.
This authority is in the beginning given directly from the Lord to men, who bestow it by ordination on others. (John 15:16.)
NUM. 27:18-23.—Moses ordains Joshua.
ACTS 6:5, 6.—Seven men are called to assist the twelve.
ACTS 14:23.—Paul and Barnabas ordain elders.
HEB. 5:1-4; DOC. AND COV. 42:11.—No man takes the honor of the Priesthood upon himself.
ACTS 8:12-15.—There are degrees of authority: Philip had authority to baptize, but not to bestow the Holy Ghost.
ACTS, CHAPS. 9 AND 10.—Saul and Cornelius are sent to men having authority.
ACTS 19:13-16.—The seven sons of Sceva try to exercise authority which they did not hold, with dire results.
DOC. AND COV. 124:128.—Twelve apostles have authority to preach the gospel to all nations.
DOC. AND COV. 121:36-46.—Powers of the Priesthood to be exercised only on the principles of righteousness.